This bid was ultimately unsuccessful, but it laid the groundwork for South Africa to successfully host the 2010 World Cup, a tournament that is still remembered fondly by football fans around the world.
However, fast forward to the present day and the picture looks very different for Danny Jordaan. The man once known as the “lugubrious walrus” is now facing charges of fraud between 2014 and 2018. The allegations against him are serious, and they paint a stark contrast to the image of the amiable football administrator that Jordaan once projected.
The charges against Jordaan are a reminder that even those who appear to be pillars of the community can fall from grace. It is a cautionary tale for those in positions of power and influence, a reminder that no one is above the law.
As the legal proceedings against Jordaan unfold, the football world waits with bated breath to see what the outcome will be. Will he be found guilty of the charges against him, or will he be able to clear his name and restore his reputation?
Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: the story of Danny Jordaan is a cautionary tale for us all. It serves as a reminder that even the most powerful among us are not immune to the consequences of their actions. It is a sobering lesson in the fragility of reputation and the importance of integrity in all that we do. In the shadowy world of international football politics, there are often hidden agendas and secretive dealings that shape the outcome of major events. One such incident occurred on the eve of the 2000 vote for the host country of the 2006 World Cup. New Zealand delegate Charles Dempsey, a quirky golf-loving man, was tasked with voting for South Africa by his association. However, in a surprising turn of events, Dempsey abstained from voting, causing a tie between South Africa and Germany. Sepp Blatter, another influential figure, stepped in and cast the deciding vote for Germany.
Despite this setback, Danny Jordaan and his bid team did not give up on their dream of hosting the World Cup in South Africa. They traveled extensively, meeting with various stakeholders and lobbying for support. One memorable encounter took place in Grenada, where Jordaan was campaigning for South Africa’s bid. I had the opportunity to witness his tireless efforts firsthand, as he navigated through meetings and golf outings in pursuit of votes.
Jordaan’s determination paid off when South Africa was awarded the hosting rights for the 2010 World Cup. However, as the event drew closer, Jordaan’s reputation began to sour. He became increasingly elusive and difficult to contact, prompting us to resort to trickery to get him to discuss World Cup preparations.
Despite the challenges and controversies that surrounded the 2010 World Cup, Jordaan remained committed to his vision of showcasing South Africa on the world stage. His passion for the game and dedication to his country’s bid were undeniable, even as his reputation came under scrutiny.
As we look back on the tumultuous journey towards hosting the 2010 World Cup, it is clear that Jordaan’s determination and resilience were key factors in securing the bid. While the road may have been rocky at times, the end result was a historic moment for South Africa and a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
